Knoxville: 3 Days of Fun, Adventure, and History
Discover family fun in Knoxville, the perfect destination for unforgettable memories.
19 July 2023
Sophie Watts
US Travel Writer
Knoxville, located in the eastern part of the United States, is an excellent destination for a family-friendly trip. The city offers a wide range of attractions and activities suitable for all ages, including the impressive Knoxville Zoo, where you can get up close and personal with various species. The World's Fair Park is another must-visit spot, featuring beautiful gardens, interactive fountains, and a unique Sunsphere observation deck for panoramic city views.
Travel plan
Getting latest place information
- Start your day with a scrumptious Southern breakfast at Tomato Head, savoring fluffy biscuits and lip-smacking gravy.
- Meander through Market Square, hugging a coffee from Rala, a cozy bookstore with quirky knick-knacks.
- Embrace the artistic side of Knoxville at the Emporium Center, featuring local art exhibitions and live performances.
- Indulge in an early dinner at The French Market, devouring their heavenly crepes that will transport your taste buds to Paris.
- Catch a flick at the Central Cinema, a retro theater where you can sip on craft beer while enjoying classic films with a twist.
- Immerse yourself in the great outdoors with a hike in the Ijams Nature Center, discovering scenic trails and wildlife aplenty.
- Take a break for a delicious lunch at Chandler's Deli, known for their soul food and mouthwatering fried chicken.
- Discover the Knoxville Botanical Gardens, a hidden oasis with vibrant flowers, whimsical sculptures, and serene walking paths.
- Hop aboard the Three Rivers Rambler, a vintage steam train that chugs along the Tennessee River, offering stunning views.
- Enjoy dinner at OliBea, a cozy eatery serving innovative dishes made from farm-fresh ingredients.
- Begin your morning at the Knoxville Museum of Art, showcasing a diverse collection of local and international artworks.
- Step back in time at the Historic Ramsey House, a restored 18th-century plantation that takes you on a journey through history.
- Relish a delightful picnic lunch at World's Fair Park, with its stunning architecture and fountains providing the perfect backdrop.
- Wander through the Museum of East Tennessee History, uncovering fascinating stories and exhibits from the region's past.
- End your day with a dinner at Calhoun's on the River, savoring their finger-licking ribs while enjoying picturesque views of the water.
Length of stay
Type of trip
How to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Knoxville, United States by plane is to fly into McGhee Tyson Airport, which is located about 12 miles south of downtown Knoxville. Many major airlines offer flights to McGhee Tyson, including American, Delta, United, Southwest, and Allegiant.
Car
Driving to Knoxville is a great option if you're coming from nearby cities like Nashville or Atlanta. The city is easily accessible from both I-75 and I-40, so you can take your pick depending on your starting location.
Train
Unfortunately, there are no passenger train stations in Knoxville. The closest Amtrak train station is in Meridian, Mississippi, which is over 400 miles away from Knoxville.
Boat
While it's not possible to take a boat directly to Knoxville, you can take a river cruise along the Tennessee River that passes through the city. Several companies offer river tours, including the Volunteer Princess and the Star of Knoxville Riverboat.
Bus
Taking a bus to Knoxville is convenient and affordable. Greyhound offers daily trips to Knoxville from cities throughout the United States, including Atlanta, Nashville, and Asheville. The bus station in Knoxville is located at 100 E Magnolia Ave.